Field of Blood

Let’s consider
the case of the original murderer: Cain, the son of Adam. Cain
admitted nothing. Cain confessed nothing. Even when given the
specific opportunity, even when confronted by God himself with the
evidence of his brother Abel’s blood on the ground, Cain admitted
nothing.

“Where is your
brother?” was God’s simple question, and Cain answered that he
had no responsibility to keep his brother from harm. This was the
response of the man who had just murdered that brother.

To the God who
knows all, Cain lied: “I don’t know where he is.” But of course
Cain knew where he had left Abel dead.

And did you notice
that Cain seems to have thought he should still have God’s
protection? Without confessing his sin, or even being sorry for it,
Cain thought it was unfair that he should be a cursed wanderer. He
complained to God, “I will be hidden from your presence.” But
even that wasn’t true, as God made clear to him.

Standing in that
blood-stained field, claiming to be without sin, Cain deceived no one
but himself.

Are we deceiving
ourselves? Are we repentant? Are we our brother’s keeper?

Prayer

From the beginning, Lord, it has been your way not to leave sin unchallenged. And it has been our fallen human way to act like it’s none of your business. Keep after us, Father. Help us to see our foolishness and turn back to you. Amen.